If knee pain is limiting your life, you deserve a clear plan—not guesswork. Many patients start with conservative care and injections, and some may be candidates for minimally invasive procedures designed to reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
This page is a simple overview of knee pain treatment pathways. Your consultation determines which options make sense for your diagnosis and goals.
At a glance:
- Start with a diagnosis-based evaluation (osteoarthritis vs other causes).
- Treatment often combines physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and pain-control strategies.
- Knee injections may help selected patients (type depends on diagnosis and history).
- GAE is a minimally invasive option for selected patients with osteoarthritis-related knee pain—especially when conservative care hasn’t worked.
Evaluation: what we look at
The right knee pain treatment depends on the cause. We review symptoms, prior treatments, and imaging when available.
- Pain pattern (activity-related, night pain, stiffness, swelling)
- Prior physical therapy or injection history
- Imaging (X-ray/MRI when appropriate)
- Medical history and goals (avoid surgery, return to activity, etc.)
Conservative care options
Many patients benefit from a conservative foundation—often used before or alongside procedures.
- Physical therapy and strengthening
- Activity modification and bracing
- Weight management strategies when appropriate
- Medication strategies coordinated with your medical team
Knee injections (what they are and when they may help)
Injections may help selected patients by reducing inflammation or supporting function. The type of injection depends on your situation and prior response.
- Anti-inflammatory injections (for selected patients)
- Viscosupplement/‘gel’ injections (for selected patients)
- PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) in some cases (see PRP page)
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE): a minimally invasive option for selected patients
GAE is an image-guided procedure that targets small vessels around the knee that may contribute to inflammation in osteoarthritis-related knee pain.
It may be considered when knee pain persists despite conservative care (including medication, injections, or physical therapy), especially for patients trying to avoid or delay knee replacement.
- Performed as an outpatient procedure (typically same-day)
- Minimally invasive (small catheter, image-guided)
- Goal: reduce inflammation and improve comfort/function (no guarantees)
Which option is right for you?
A consultation helps match the treatment to the diagnosis and your goals. We’ll review what you’ve already tried and what’s likely to help next.
Medical information is for general education and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. For emergencies (severe sudden symptoms, chest pain, shortness of breath), call 911.
Comparing Knee Pain Treatment Options
Knee pain can be treated in several ways depending on underlying causes, symptom severity, and response to previous care. The table below compares common solutions and when they may be considered.
| Treatment Option | What It Involves | May Be Considered For | Invasiveness |
| Physical therapy | Strengthening, mobility, and rehabilitation exercises | Many causes of knee pain and osteoarthritis | Noninvasive |
| Lifestyle changes/bracing | Activity modification, weight management when appropriate, and support devices | Patients starting conservative treatment | Noninvasive |
| Knee injections | Medication or other injectable therapies delivered into the knee | Selected patients who need additional symptom management | Minimally invasive |
| Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) | Platelet-rich plasma injections | Selected patients based on diagnosis and medical history | Minimally invasive |
| Genicular artery embolization (GAE) | Image-guided catheter treatment targeting small blood vessels associated with inflammation | Selected patients with osteoarthritis-related knee pain that persists despite conservative treatment | Minimally invasive |
| Knee surgery | Surgical treatment such as knee replacement | Patients whose condition warrants surgical intervention | Surgical |
Why Choose MINT for Knee Pain Treatment in St. Louis, MO?
Midwest Institute for Non-Surgical Therapy provides minimally invasive, image-guided care for patients seeking relief from chronic knee pain in the St. Louis, MO, area. Led by board-certified interventional radiologist Dr. Goke Akinwande, MINT uses advanced imaging to support accurate diagnosis and precise treatment. Our team also emphasizes clear communication, compassionate care, and patient comfort, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about knee pain treatment.
FAQs
What is the best treatment for knee osteoarthritis pain?
There isn’t one best treatment for everyone. Many people start with physical therapy and anti-inflammatory strategies, then consider injections. Selected patients may consider GAE or surgery depending on severity and goals.
Do you offer knee injections?
Your site can state what you offer directly. If you provide injections (including PRP), list them clearly and explain candidacy and expectations.
What is GAE and who is a candidate?
GAE is a minimally invasive procedure aimed at reducing inflammation in osteoarthritis-related knee pain. Candidates typically have chronic pain that persists despite conservative care. Consultation and imaging help determine fit.
How long does relief last after injections or GAE?
Duration varies widely by individual and underlying condition. Your clinician will review expected timelines for your situation.
Will insurance cover GAE or injections?
Coverage varies by plan and medical necessity. Your office can help verify benefits and prior authorization requirements when applicable.